There’s no question the BMW 6 Series Coupe is a car for drivers- the kind to be observed in its 3-golf-bag-big boot. Emphasising taking capacity this way doesn’t guarantee the vehicle concerned will be unexciting. But it’s a pretty reliable proof the auto maker considers its buyers are likely to be more interested in the drive off the tee than to the clubhouse.
The 300kW twinturbo V8-powered 650i is scheduled for the same November release date in Australia as the 640i. Expect full adaptive drive tech as standard and a pricetag around $240,000, a cool $60,000 or so more than the BMW 640i Coupe 2012. So BMW’s big, new 2-door is technologically accomplished, powered by some of the world’s best engines, better looking than the model it replaces and yet difficult to get excited about. Yes, the big coupe’s presence and price can be counted on to reliably indicate its owner’s awesome affluence to other road users. Fine, but ownership of a BMW 6 Series Coupe isn’t an indication of exquisite taste in driver’s cars.
BMW 640i Coupe 2012 Specs
- Engine: 2979cc in-line 6cyl, dohc, 24v, turbo
- Max Power: 235kW @ 5800-6000rpm
- Max Torque: 450Nm @ 1300-4500rpm
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
BMW 640i Price: $180,000(estimated)
BMW 640i Release Date: November
Which is not to say the standard BMW 6 Series Coupe purchaser isn’t demanding. Spending a lot, they expect a lot. And the BMW delivers. The latest and best drivertrain, safety, and driver-aid technology is all here, and the lusciously leathered 4-seat interior feels, smells, and sounds just like something so expensive should.
Bulk is one of the chief reasons for diminished driver enjoyment. The new BMW 6 Series is significantly larger than the car it replaces. Even though the new body uses even more lightweight materials, the size increase overwhelmes the weight loss program’s benefits. At 1735kg it’s a hefty car.
Only the BMW 640i Coupe 2012 was presented at the Munich-based International release. It is 235kW 3.0litre twin-scroll turbocharged and direct-injected in-line six is a smooth, strong engine that sounds wonderful, even inside the heavily insulated environment of the BMW 6 Series Coupe. Equally polished is the 8-speed auto, which chooses and shifts gears with near-flawless finesse. An auto start-stop system is standard. It works well, and unquestionably results in fuel usage analyze results of 7.6-7.8L/100km. The claimed 0-100 km/h is 5.4sec.
Different to the perfectly satisfying drivetrain, the chassis leaves you wanting more. Electric power steering is standard, but the up-spec test cars at the launch were equipped with BMW’s optional Integral Active Steering. How this works in practical terms is an electronically controlled ratio-varying planetary gear in the steering column, plus electric active rear steering. While not as weirdly non-linear as early iterations of Active Steering, the new tech never feels natural.
It is not possible to talk about the BMW 640i Coupe’s handling without reference to the utterly bewildering world of BMW drivertrain and chassis electronics. Above standard specification, active steering is the first possible additional step. Next comes Dynamic Damping, then Dynamic Drive.
What in the end, is the BMW 6 Series Coupe good for? Nicely, its performance, refinement, stability, and cabin comfort make it pleasant long-distance, high-speed cruiser. On the autobahn, it is steering isn’t really an issue, even at a relaxingly easy 180km/h.
For your information, new BMW 640i Coupe 2012 will be released on November. So, keep stay tune to read our blog to know about BMW 640i Coupe review.